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GOSHEN — The most feasible option for improving the safety and capacity of Route 17 is to widen the 20 miles of the four-lane highway between Harriman and Middletown to six lanes.
GOSHEN — The most feasible option for improving the safety and capacity of Route 17 is to widen the 20 miles of the four-lane highway between Harriman and Middletown to six lanes.
The question that the state Department of Transportation tackled Thursday night with some 25 people from communities along the future interstate is how, exactly, to widen it.
Should the third lanes in either direction be general purpose lanes or high-occupancy vehicle lanes restricted to cars, buses and vans carrying two or more people?
The workshop was the second of three that the DOT has scheduled in support of a $1 million study of the Route 17 corridor between Harriman and Monticello. It will be repeated Tuesday in Sullivan County, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Rock Hill Fire Department.
The two scenarios for widening the highway are the cheapest and fastest of the four options presented at the first workshop in August — not counting the option of doing nothing.
Eliminated from consideration now are the options for introducing mass transit into the corridor, either bus rapid transit, at a cost of $1 billion to $6 billion, or light rail, $4 billion to $12 billion.
Adding general purpose lanes, in contrast, would cost between $200 million to $700 million, and HOV lanes, $800 million to $3 billion. Both options would utilize the median and require little property acquisition but the HOV lanes would cost more to build because of the need for barriers to separate them as well as control entering and leaving them.
Dan Coots, the DOT's project manager, said the decision not to pursue the mass transit options reflected a public consensus from the first workshop that they were unaffordable. But that consensus also supported laying a foundation for some future form of transit.
Bernie Kalus, an engineer with HDR/WSP SELLS, the DOT's consultants for the study, said computer modeling of traffic growth showed that congestion will increase steadily on Route 17 through 2045. Widening the highway between Harriman and Middletown, however, would be sufficient to mitigate the projected 30 percent to 50 percent increase in trips per hour — to as many as 5,000 in some stretches during the morning rush.
The DOT will present final recommendations at a third workshop in February.


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In the days immediately before and after a loved one dies, time may slow to a crawl or pass in a flash. But how can people be sure to do or say the things they want to in that critical time period?
"Practically speaking, you need to pull a support system together," says Sherri Auger, an elder-care planning consultant who co-wrote Now What? A Practical Guide to Dealing with Aging, Illness and Dying (Novalis, 2010) with health journalist Barbara Wickens.
Even better, if the death is not sudden, you can help your loved one to plan ahead so that his or her wishes for end-of-life care and a final remembrance can be carried out easily.
"It takes a huge burden off the family if they know they have done what you want them to do," she said.
Auger, an only child, found out the importance of such planning 10 years ago when her father became ill. His illness took its toll on her mother, who also became ill and died three weeks later.
Auger then had to plan her mother's funeral, settle her estate, sell her parents' home and find long-term care for her father without much guidance or advance discussions about her parents' wishes.
The process led Auger, who was then working in the corporate world, into the relatively new field of elder-care planning. She now teaches on the subject in the Toronto area and heads Caring Matters, which helps individual clients with elder care and estate planning.
Starting a discussion about end-of-life care and funeral arrangements with elderly parents is difficult and doesn't get easier as parents get older, Auger acknowledges. Adult children approaching middle age should make out their own wills and put their funeral plans in writing, then raise the topic with their parents.
Here is some of Auger's best advice for the time when a loved one is dying and the period immediately afterward:
"The centre of attention always has to be on the person passing away," she said. Those in the room with a dying person must remember that "the last sense that people lose is the sense of hearing" and must give one another "space and respect," acknowledging that not everyone wants to be in the room at a death and trying not to "put their own feelings on other people."
As a person begins transitioning into death, he or she might "need to be given permission to pass away," Auger said. Handholding and applying hand cream can be very welcome, but it is important to know too that some people might find it uncomfortable to be touched as the end nears.
Keep practical considerations in mind, such as the fact the dying person might not be wearing dentures and could find it difficult to speak.
"You cannot expect them to say their dying words to you," Auger said. "Don't leave what you want to say until the very end. Have the words you want to have with them before it reaches that stage."
Last rites or a final blessing from a priest or other religious leader can ease the transition to death, she added.
Once death has occurred, "you don't have to rush away." Instead, Auger recommended that people "take whatever time you need to be with the person."
She also recommended that after a grieving person returns home they should "mark that moment in some special way, with something pleasant" such as a hot bath.
In looking for support through the grieving process, she advised people to consult the many resources available through churches and hospice programs. Ask friends and family members for help, especially with tasks that match well with their expertise.
But be aware people closest to you might not be able to help "because they are grieving too."
On a practical note, she advised next of kin of the deceased to avoid getting robbed from those who prey on the grieving: Ask someone to stay at the house during the funeral.

subset: commoncrawl


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The PAT group has released the latest version of their popular templating library - patTemplate 3.1.0 stable.
After two years of development we finally released patTemplate 3.1.0 as a stable version. The changes since the last beta release are minimal. You can read about all changes since the last stable release in the changelog. patTemplate can be downloaded from our PEAR channel server or easily installed via the PEAR installer.
The patTemplate system helps developers separate out the business logic from the layout and content of their site to make maintenance easier for both the designer and the developer.


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Simulation technology specialist Zimusoft has released UmbrellaSDK, a new cloud-based integrated development environment (IDE) for iOS and Android application development. Staking a claim for recognition as the first cross-platform mobile development tool that runs entirely in the browser, developers will not need to download or install any data or code to use this new tool.
Using the "everything under one umbrella" tagline, from its cloud-based home this new tool provides a code window, assets for application construction, and on-screen simulators to help tune use case scenarios post deployment.
Zimusoft says that UmbrellaSDK makes it possible to code and deploy apps to an iOS or Android device instantly with no provisioning required. The code editor and all the mobile simulators (for iPhone, iPad, and Android) are included. Developers are urged to try the product and use their browsers to type code, run it in the onscreen mobile device of their choice, and then publish it to the App Store or Android Market.
The company says that UmbrellaSDK provides a complete desktop including code window, file explorer window, and a log window to see errors and debug text output — there is also a "preview window" to view assets. All this is made possible by use of HTML5 and JavaScript.
According to Zimusoft, "The common ground for all the new mobile devices is WebKit. JavaScript has grown up to become a full-fledged powerful and expressive language. First-time coders and pros alike will feel at home writing code using our API. One simple function will put an image anywhere you want it. Add Text. Add Lists and Button — and we have provided all the cross platform logic to make it work — everywhere."
Zimusoft goes to great pains to point out that this is not one of those "cryptic JavaScript libraries", designed to be a crutch for HTML. This is new code designed to simplify everything so developers can focus on what they want their app to do.


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"Operation Happiness," New Era, Aug. 2013, 16–18
Operation Happiness
Kaitlyn Hedges lives in Utah, USA.
Until her junior year of high school, Brittany R. of New Mexico, USA, seemed to have the life of a typical teenager—playing in the high school band, surviving classes, and planning life after graduation. But things didn't work out the way she imagined.
During her junior year of high school, Brittany came down with flu-like symptoms that—after many hospital stays and tests—eventually led doctors to diagnose her with a rare disease that paralyzed her digestive tract. Eating normal food was no longer an option. Ever since, she's had to stay in the hospital for months at a time for various surgeries and procedures, and now she eats through specially prepared tubes she keeps in a backpack.
Brittany has chosen to reach outward instead of focusing on her problems. "The more that you [focus] on yourself, the more likely you are to fall into a rut and feel sorry for yourself," Brittany says. "Reaching out to others, you really forget your own problems." She adds, "I'm able to see the joy on the faces of those I'm helping, along with the confirmation of the Spirit letting me know that what I'm doing is good."
Deciding to Focus Outward
While her high school years were disrupted by hospital stays and feeding tubes, Brittany found a way to help other patients in similar situations. She had read in Doctrine and Covenants 60:13 about not hiding our talents, and she decided to act. "I have a lot that I do, and I like to share it with others and bring smiles to their faces," Brittany says. "I've been given so much. I love to help other people have a good life too." She used her talents to draw cartoons, compile a coloring book, and make sock monkeys for other patients—all in an effort to make them smile in the midst of adversity.
Operation Draw
It all started when, during one of her hospital stays, Brittany began drawing funny, chaotic cartoon scenes and posting them on her door. One scene featured a carnival with roller coasters, bumper cars, a person stuck in a fake cannon, and even someone getting buried by an out-of-control cotton-candy machine. Another showed different events in the hospital, including a patient escaping in a wheelchair.
Children especially loved her drawings, and all sorts of people would stop at her door to smile and laugh. Brittany ended up making copies of these drawings so the hospital could put them up on the walls. She'd found that something she did for fun could provide a way to bless others.
Operation Coloring Book
Another way to spread happiness with her talents began to develop after she had a conversation with one of her friends in the hospital. She and a fellow patient laughed at their thoughts of "how you know you've been in the hospital too long." These quips soon turned into a coloring book Brittany drew called Life Is Full of Color. Each page has one of Brittany's drawings and a humorous blurb, like, "You know you've been in the hospital too long when you can work your own IV pump" or "… when your room at the hospital is more decorated than your room at home." The coloring book was published and is now being given to children in the hospital. Brittany hopes it helps them know they're not alone in their trials.
Operation Sock Monkey
The best-known of Brittany's creative service may be a sock monkey project she started—a project one of her friends has now dubbed "The Secret Ninja Monkey Operation." Why sock monkeys, you might ask?
Well, the project started as just a fun activity to do with a pair of knee socks. As Brittany worked on the first sock monkey, however, she thought of friends who were going through surgeries. She decided to make sock monkeys for those experiencing hard times, including patients who are frequently in the hospital. "Really, my sock monkeys are for anyone who needs a pick-me-up," she says.
She even customizes some of the sock monkeys with medical equipment so that patients uncomfortable about getting new tubes or surgeries will have "a buddy with them who has the same thing." She and her friends have sent over 400 sock monkey "buddies" to patients all over the world.
Lifting and Being Lifted
The service Brittany has given has not led to a cure for her sickness, but it has improved her life. "I don't like having this condition," Brittany says, "but emotionally I like to look outward and not focus so much on myself but more on how I can use this to strengthen others. At times I do have a woe-is-me day. That would almost always happen at some point in time, but emotionally I have been able to keep positive and happy and optimistic." Sock monkeys and drawings help her and those she serves stay positive enough to avoid negative emotional ruts.
Brittany has helped the patients around her see they are loved and not alone in their struggles, and because of the gospel she knows she is not alone either. "I've seen miracles happen," Brittany says. "I've learned that Heavenly Father and Christ will lift me up—help me rise to the challenge—as long as I reach out for Them. Their hands are always there for me."
And her hands, in turn, are there for others.


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Lara Stone Shares Beauty and Perfume Advice 2011-08-05 12:12:34
Model Lara Stone Shares Her Beauty Advice
Model Lara Stone is known for her gorgeous curves and sexy gap teeth. Now, the Dutch stunner is the new face of ck one shock, the latest fragrance duo from the iconic brand. In a departure from the original ck one's unisex appeal, the new scents were developed along gender lines. One's for men, the other's for women, so which does Lara prefer? And what's the best beauty advice she's picked up from her years of modeling? Only one way to find out: Watch now!


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Emergency + Weather-Related Info
Announcements of class cancellations, College closings or delays will be posted on this page, as well as disseminated via:
- Send Word Now messages (members of the Sage community receive alerts via text and/or e-mail)
- MySage Announcements
- Watch or listen to the following stations:
- TV: Channel 6, 9, 10, or 13
- Radio: WGY (810 AM), WFLY (92.3), WYJB (95.5), WRVE (99.5)
What the News Means for You
The following are possible actions that Sage could take in case of inclement weather or other emergency, in order of increasing severity:
- Classes Delayed – An announcement that the start of classes has been delayed means that staff and administrators are expected to report at the delayed opening hour indicated. Classes scheduled to begin prior to the delayed opening hour will not be held. Students and faculty are expected to meet for classes held at or after the hour of campus opening.
- Classes Cancelled – An announcement that classes have been cancelled means that students and faculty do not attend classes, but administrative offices are open and staff and administrators are expected to report to work at the usual time. The cancellation of day classes does not automatically mean that evening or weekend classes and events or activities are also cancelled. When this is the case every effort will be made to post a separate message before 3 p.m., however the rapid change in a situation may require a later cancellation time. Check TV and radio stations or MySage periodically for updates.
- Colleges Closed – An announcement that the Colleges are closed means that classes have been cancelled, and all public events and activities will not be held. Students, faculty, staff, and administrators should not report to class or work. However, essential personnel (public safety, maintenance, housekeeping and residence hall staff) are expected to report for their usual shift and residence dining services will be provided; check for amended hours.
Note: The Colleges will only be closed in extreme circumstances. These may require closing after classes have begun for the day. Students, faculty, staff and administrators will be notified of the closing time via CruiserAlert and MySage.
Safety First
All members of the Sage community are encouraged to exercise their own judgment regarding their ability to safely get to and from the Sage campuses. Sage strives to operate as a business and remain open and accessible as consistently as possible, but does not wish anyone to put themselves at risk needlessly. Staff and administrators may use a personal or vacation day when they determine conditions are unsafe for them to report to work.


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Bel-Ray Weekend Wrap Up
MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3
The MotoGP tour continued this weekend after a week break in racing action. The Hertz British Grand Prix took place at the historic Silverstone Circuit in the heart of the United Kingdom.
The Bel-Ray backed Power Electronics Aspar racers Aleix Espargaro and Randy DePuniet have been the top CRT racers each weekend and this weekend in Silverstone was no different.
Espargaro finished a strong 11th place, while teammate DePuniet was close on his heels in 12th, as they continue to lead this new class of Moto GP machines. The two racers traded positions during the event and Espargaro made his pass just 2 laps from the end to secure his finish.
Espargaro was very excited about the race and his friendly teammate rivalry. "I'm happier than ever today, as both my brother Pol (Espargaro) and I got good results here at Silverstone. I started well and tried to follow the satellite bikes, but they kept leaving me behind on the straights. I was able to pull away from the other CRT riders, but little by little, Randy caught me back up. I let him set the pace once he had passed. Two laps from the end, I took over in front and broke away, just as I did at Montmeló. I outbroke him on the first chicane, gritted my teeth and did what I needed to do in order to finish ahead. I have never had a more competitive rival who I get on so well with at the same time. I love this atmosphere that we have in POWER ELECTRONICS Aspar. It is very difficult for me to beat him over the course of a single hot lap in practice, especially when we work more on the race, but I am getting good results recently."
The series veteran DePuniet spoke about what he will need to do in order to beat his teammate this season. "I didn't get a very good start and I had to get past (Michele) Pirro and make up ground in order to get back in touch with Aleix. Once I caught up with him, I made a pass and stayed in front for practically the whole race, but I was having a lot of problems with the rear tire. I felt a lot of movement and I was lacking grip. I tried to put up with this throughout the course of the race and shake off Aleix's moves, but in the end he must have seen that he was faster than me at certain points on the track. Once he'd got past, he managed to open up a gap, and whilst I was able to pull it back on the final laps, it wasn't enough to try and regain the position. I am annoyed, because we did a good job and yet, still didn't find the best chassis setting. In the warmup, we improved the feel on the front, but it was the rear that gave us the most scares and affected us most in the race. We will have to keep on working in order to perfect the bike and be more consistent."
Under threatening skies the Moto2 class got underway at Silverstone on Sunday. The Bel-Ray sponsored Mapfre Aspar Team of Toni Elias and Nico Terol competed two top 20 finishes with Elias in 12th and Terol in 20th.
Elias spoke about his results at the end of the day's events."Yesterday we had a morning crash that meant I didn't feel comfortable in qualifying, so that's why I was so far down on the grid. We changed the chassis for today and I felt better this morning. We improved our pace and our fastest lap in the race, and I gained a lot of places on the opening lap. However, starting from so far back meant that I got embroiled in the typical tussles of Moto2, which all end up costing you time. We knew that this could happen before we started, but we fought well for twelfth. It is a shame about qualifying, as maybe I could have been part of the second group and taken sixth or seventh."
Terol was disappointed with his results, but is looking to the next round for improvement. He spoke about the weekend and the future following the race. "The team has supported me the entire weekend, but I still found it hard to go fast here; the wind was a big factor. In the warm-up, I gained more confidence and we put on a front tire for the race that we hadn't tried before. On the opening laps, I was lacking a little pace with this new rubber and I didn't have the right feel when I opened the throttle. I felt better when it had warmed up and I am satisfied with my pace during the second half of the race. I passed a few riders, but wasn't able to get into the points. It is a pity to end this weekend so low down in the standings. We have to be positive and focus on Assen now, which is a track that I love. We will get back into the points."
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone took place this past weekend and Bel-Ray sponsored Bankia Aspar riders Hector Faubel and Alberto Moncayo raced to excellent top 15 finishes in this highly competitive Moto3 class. Despite a 23rd place starting position, Faubel was able to slice past his rivals and finish in 12th place. He spoke about his race following the event. "The race was a tricky one, because I started from very far back. I knew that I had to get a good start and that the three opening laps would be very important. I moved up three or four places off the line, but on the third lap, a rider crashed right in front of me and cut me off from the group. I started to push and caught up with the second group, ending up getting a decent pace going. At the end of the race, I pushed hard to break away, but a couple of other riders kept with me, ending with me finishing twelfth. Teammate Alberto Moncayo was testing new bike setups this weekend in hopes of getting the handling he was looking for. The team was successful and scored a 15th place finish at the checkered flag.
Moncayo was happy with the changes he made and spoke about them following the race."We had the opportunity to try out the new chassis this weekend. We really like it and it has helped us to improve a lot. However, we still need to improve our engine setting, because we have been having some small problems for a while now. On the opening laps I felt good and was not having trouble maintaining my position. We don't know why, but later on the tire went off completely. We can't make excuses though and should keep working hard to resolve the problems that we have had and be more competitive for the next race."
World Motocross
The 2012 FIM World Motocross Championship Series will cross the halfway point this weekend as the series continues in Bastogne, Belgium for the GP of Belgium.
Bel-Ray backed CP377 Monster Energy Kawasaki Pro Circuit rider Christophe Pourcel grabbed his fifth podium of the season with 5-2 moto finishes. The talented Frenchman's third place overall allowed him to move up into third in the standings, just 6 points away from second place. He spoke about his first moto struggles and overcoming them for another podium result. "I didn't choose the best position on the grid in the first race, and my start was not so good; I came back to fourth, but lost time when I crashed as a lapper destroyed a rut just when I was coming! I got the holeshot in the second race and battled first with Bobryshev and later with Desalle. We passed each other several times, but it was costing all of us time and allowed Cairoli to catch us. But I got another podium and that's important for the series."
Teammate Sebastein Pourcel competed to another top 10 overall result with consistent 8-11 moto scores for 9th overall. He spoke about his results following the event. "I'm happy as I have now finished the last six races in the top thirteen, and, if I hadn't crashed in the second race, it could have been even better today. I had a good start in the first moto and soon found a good rhythm. Then, in the second, I was fighting with Gonçalves when I crashed in the waves after the finish line; I got back on in sixteenth place and recovered to eleventh. Despite the crash, it was my second best GP of the year."
Bel-Ray backed Floride Monster Energy Kawasaki Pro Circuit team rider Tommy Searle scored his third victory of the season and cemented himself firmly in the chase for the 2012 World Championship. Just days after his 23rd birthday, Searle grabbed the holeshot in both motos and raced to a second place in moto one followed by the victory in moto two, for the overall grand prix victory. Searle spoke with confidence following the second moto. "My Kawasaki got me out of the gate first in both motos today and that is really important in my battles with Herlings. I was a little too cautious on the first lap of the first race, but the track was really tricky and I didn't want to take any risks. I knew I was the fastest and I soon caught him up again, but we were both using the same lines, so I had to search for new ones, but they were not so good; I nearly crashed and lost a lot of time, but I knew I could still win the GP on the second moto. The track was better in the second race and I just concentrated on keeping him off my rear wheel. The points gap is still 24 points, but we are only halfway through the series and I have again proved that I am the fastest."
Teammate Roelants came to his home Grand Prix with confidence and finished just off the podium in fourth overall. He is improving from his major crash that occurred earlier this season and as the series reached the halfway point, he is still in contention for a top finish in the 2012 standings. Roelants spoke about the race following the checkered flag. "I'm still not 100%, but this weekend I felt better than in France and Portugal and I think that in Sweden, it will be OK. Here in Belgium, my starts were not so good; I lost several positions at the first corner, but then fought hard for fourth and fifth place, so that's not so bad." The 2012 World Motocross Championship series will continue in Sweden on July 1st.
AMA Motocross
The 2012 AMA National Motocross Championship continued on Saturday afternoon at the Red Bull Budd's Creek National. In 250 class racing, Bel-Ray backed Rockstar Energy Racing Suzuki riders Jason Anderson, Blake Wharton and Hunter Hewitt all scored top twenty overall results despite obstacles along the way. Anderson was the top finisher for the team with a 6th overall, followed by Wharton in 12th and Hewitt in 18th. Bel-Ray Elite racers Lowell Spangler and Steve Roman also put in commendable results with Spangler in 27th and Roman in 28th overall. In the 450 class, Bel-Ray backed L&Mc Racing's Andrew Short finished 6-10 for 9th overall, while Elite racers Derek Anderson finished 26th, Ronnie Stewart finished 28th and Dakota Kessler was 36th overall.
The series will take a break before resuming on July 7th in Michigan.
ATV Motocross
The 2012 ATV Motocross Championship series came to Mt. Morris, Pennsylvania this past weekend for round six of the ten race series. Bel-Ray racer Josh Upperman has been consistently putting the Baldwin Motorsports Honda near the front of the pack each race. Despite a couple of mistakes that lead to crashes, Upperman was still able to score 5-4 moto finishes for fourth overall in the final results. Upperman is currently fourth place in the series' standings, just five points away from the third place racer. The series will enjoy a week break before resuming at Sunday Creek Raceway in Millfield, Ohio the last weekend of June.
Follow Bel-Ray racers in action all season long on www.belray.com and www.belrayracing.com.
Bel Ray Company Inc was founded in 1946 and is a privately held, woman owned business serving the lubrication needs of powersports, industrial and mining customers worldwide. Bel-Ray is recognized as the leader in the specialty lubricants industry for setting high standards of quality and performance with products formulated for the motorcycle, automotive, aviation, energy, food, marine, military, mining, OEM, Industrial steel, and textile industries."Flex Your Engine" with Bel-Ray's superior Powersports line that delivers top quality Made-in-the-USA products to motorcycle and recreational vehicle enthusiasts around the world. Bel-Ray products are available at powersports dealers worldwide. Visit Bel-Ray.com for a complete dealer listing. Like us on Facebook.com/BelRay or follow us on Twitter/Bel_Ray


text: Job Discussion Forums :: View topic - Taxis in Qatar Get TEFL Certified & Start Your Adventure Today! Job Discussion Forums"The Internet's Meeting Place for ESL/EFL Students and Teachers from Around the World!" FAQ Search Memberlist Usergroups Register Profile Log in to check your private messages Log in Taxis in Qatar Job Discussion Forums Forum Index -> Qatar View previous topic :: View next topic Author Message wilberforceJoined: 27 Dec 2008Posts: 647 Posted: Fri Jun 05, 2009 3:17 pm Post subject: Taxis in Qatar Still a big shortage of taxis but a new company is supposed to be coming soon. http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=295177&version=1&template_id=36&parent_id=16 Mowasalat warns rude taxi drivers Mowasalat has issued a stern warning to its drivers who behave rudely towards passengers By Ramesh Mathew/Staff Reporter Mowasalat has warned its taxi drivers of dire consequences if the company has received any complaints against their misbehaviour or rude behaviour towards the passengers. Speaking to Gulf Times yesterday, the companys business development director Ahmed al-Ansari said those who faced any problem with drivers should bring it to the attention of the company without delay. Al-Ansari said this in response to a complaint registered by a Western expatriate woman against a driver, who, she said despite her numerous pleas, had indulged in rash driving along the Corniche a few days ago. The aggrieved passenger abandoned the journey half way through and walked nearly 3km under scorching sun to reach her hotel. The driver reportedly made her part with QR15 for a short distance before she got out of the vehicle, the passenger said in her complaint to the company. However, she could not remember the vehicles number. The official said the department concerned has already been alerted to locate the vehicle and the driver involved in the incident. We are going through the records of the cars that moved out of the companys City Center rank, from where she boarded the vehicle, the official said. Al-Ansari said when passengers lodge complaints they should also mention the vehicles registration number and the time and day of travel in the vehicle. Otherwise, it would be difficult for the company to locate the vehicle and people involved, he said. Answering another question, the official said the company would not entertain any anonymous complaints. If the passengers have a genuine complaint, why should they refuse to reveal their identity, he asked. However, if the complaints are genuine, the company would not hesitate to take disciplinary action against those concerned, the official added. Back to top wilberforceJoined: 27 Dec 2008Posts: 647 Posted: Sat Jul 11, 2009 8:02 am Post subject: bus shelters - about time Qatars model AC shelter for bus passengers ready DOHA There is good news for passengers of Qatar who have to wait for buses while braving the sweltering heat, especially during summer. The sole state-owned transport company of Qatar, Mowasalat is gearing up to have air-conditioned shelters for bus passengers in near future. In an e-mail response to Qatar Tribunes query regarding the plans for building AC bus shelters in Qatar, the Business Development Director of Mo w a s a l a t , Ahmad al Ansari, on Thursday said that the first model of the air-conditioned bus shelters had recently been built on Dream Street in Lusail area. The highly advanced bus shelter has been installed by Qmedia Decaux, which has been carrying out the construction of bus shelters across the country. The model is presently under trial, he clarified Al Ansari hinted at the possibility of having several air-conditioned bus shelters across the country in future once the trial was successful and the concerned authorities approved the model. According to the latest issue of Mowasalats magazine, Masrat, the air-conditioned bus shelter boasts of state-ofthe- art technology with display screen, electronic signage displaying bus schedules, as well as entertaining and promotional materials. The bus shelter is unique as it could be dismantled for maintenance and reinstalled as well. Besides, it is made of high-quality materials, which have high resistance from inclement weather, such as heat and dust, the magazine adds. The model displays Qatars characteristic c u l t u r a l emblem, the spe c t a c u l a r Museum of Islamic Art. Simplicity and scientific brilliance are the hallmark of the model, the magazine states. Meanwhile, it is worth mentioning here that Q-media Decaux completed the construction of 100 normal bus shelters last year and is expected to complete other 100 within Doha this year itself. It also plans to build 100 more bus shelters outside Doha. Ansari had earlier admitted at a press conference that congestion on roads and absence of footpath in many areas was responsible for the slow progress of construction of bus shelters in the country. http://www.qatar-tribune.com/data/20090711/content.asp?section=exclusive1_1 Back to top washingtonpostJoined: 28 Nov 2009Posts: 61 Posted: Thu Dec 03, 2009 5:57 pm Post subject: Not enough. Has this new taxi company people were talking about emerged? Is it true that HRH has agreed to give up the Karwa taxi monopoly? It's about time. 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The gift of mobility
PET project puts hope in motion for those in need
Jason Jenkins
Jason Jenkins
Jason Jenkins
Volunteers Dick Parker and Nancy Gentzsch, both of Columbia, assemble an adult-size PET destined for Angola.
The estimate is conservative, but nonetheless sobering. In the developing world, about 21 million people — roughly three and a half times the population of Missouri — crawl along the ground because they have no other means of transportation.
Some are the victims of birth defects caused by malnutrition. Many have suffered the ravages of diseases such as polio that have left them crippled. Others have been maimed by land mines or lost limbs as casualties of war.
No matter the reason, these 21 million people, many of whom are children, drag themselves through the mud and the muck. They are both ignored and ridiculed, often cast aside by societies that consider their infirmities to be punishment for unknown sins.
Mel West is all too familiar with the situation. As a retired Methodist minister who has been in mission work for 40 years, he is active in fundraising and sending relief supplies overseas to those in need. In 1995, West received a request from Larry Hills, a missionary in the central African nation of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo).
"He said we need a hand-cranked, three-wheel wheelchair with hauling capacity that can go where conventional wheelchairs won't go," West recalls. "I called a friend of mine, Earl Miner, a product designer down in Marshfield. We made up a few prototypes, and that's how PET got started in my garage."
Despite losing both legs, this man in Gautemala is able to get around using a PET he received in 2006. Courtesy of the PET project, Columbia, Mo.
Over the past 14 years, PET (which stands for "personal energy transportation") has grown from a garage operation with a handful of volunteers in central Missouri to an international organization with hundreds of volunteers around the globe. More than 16,000 PETs have been distributed in 69 countries, from Central and South America to Africa, Asia and even eastern Europe.
"The goal is to provide appropriate mobility for all of God's people in need starting with those who need it most," West says, noting that PET is an ecumenical faith-based group. "And appropriate is the key word there. The hand-cranked PET is not appropriate for a person who can't crank one, so you find another means of providing mobility."
While the Columbia facility is the largest, cranking out roughly half of the 3,000 PETs produced each year, 15 other shops have been set up in nine U.S. states and four foreign countries. Volunteers from rural Missouri, Michigan, Florida, Ohio and elsewhere make parts in their own basements and garages and send them to Columbia for assembly.
"Every one has a different story," West says, gesturing to a world map on the wall in his office adorned with photos of people who have received PETs built in Columbia. He points to the photo of a young woman from Honduras.
Volunteer Roger Hofmeister, a retired doctor from Columbia, installs the upper chain guard on an adult-size PET.
"That's Yolanda. When she was 4 years old, polio crippled her," West says. "For 20 years, she crawled on the ground. Her parents said she was always very shy. She didn't want people seeing her, so she didn't go out much. But when she got her PET, they said immediately she was outgoing — out going someplace all the time. Now she goes up and down the street, selling fresh bread that her folks have made."
Weighing about 90 pounds, the original PET is built on a steel frame with a treated wood bed. A bike chain directly connects the hand cranks to the front wheel. There are no derailleurs or coaster brakes, allowing the PET to be driven backward as well as forward.
Because PETs often are used in remote, rural areas, they are designed to be as maintenance-free as possible. Solid rubber tires eliminate the chance of flats. No special tools are needed to tighten the chain; a length of pipe and a pry bar will suffice.
In addition to the adult-size PET, the project produces a child-size PET and a Pull PET, which provides mobility to those who can neither walk nor have the upper body strength to crank an original PET. A prototype Push PET also is in development.
"It's a tremendous advantage to the caretaker," says West, a member of Boone Electric Cooperative. "We originally didn't think about that as much, but once you get a handicapped child riding a PET, it takes a tremendous burden off the caretaker. It means almost as much to them as it does the child."
Roger Hofmeister, a retired doctor from Columbia, started volunteering with the PET project about eight years ago. Today, he serves as the volunteer coordinator, working three to four days a week.
"There aren't many things in the medical field that are as dramatic as the PET," he says. "The impact this makes, it's day and night."
Thanks to the mobility provided by his PET, this man in Vietnam is able to earn a living by selling toys. Courtesy of the PET project, Columbia, Mo.
It costs about $250 to build a PET. "An ordinary wheelchair runs about $850, so we think that's a bargain," West says, noting that they must raise about $1,200 every day of the year in order to maintain the operation.
Russell Uthe, a Three Rivers Electric Cooperative member from Chamois, has donated his skills as a welder to the PET project for several years. He's primarily built brake handles for the standard adult-size PET and the child-size PET, as well as some other miscellaneous parts.
"The pastor at church asked if I'd be interested in some volunteer welding. I had no idea what I was getting into," he recalls. "Knowing that this isn't just making somebody's day, it's making somebody's life, a whole new way of life for someone who can't get around. I'm glad to be a part of it."
Though West arguably has been the central catalyst for the PET project's success, ironically, he has never witnessed someone receiving a PET abroad.
"I just prefer to send younger people," the 85-year-old says, referring to trips where volunteers help distribute PETs. "I'd rather send them than for me to go. I'm already hooked on it."
For more information about the PET project, or to learn how you can get involved, call 573-886-7877 or go online to www.giftofmobility.org.


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Come on over to Digital Delights Tutorial page and learn how to make these cute little May Day Baskets using "Made with Love" Digital Paper &
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Saturday Showcase ~ May Day Basket Tutorial
0 comments Posted by Wanda at 12:00 AM
Thursday, April 28, 2011
4 comments Posted by Audrey Ernst (hippieaud) at 8:49 PM
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
New Cards and New Challenge
0 comments Posted by Marlene at 10:00 PM
This weeks Guest Designer
1 comments Posted by Lisa at 9:00 AM
Iulia used Happy Birthday Pippin and sentiment
Here is alittle about Iulia
Hi! I'm Iulia from Romania, married and mother of a nearly 2 years old gorgeous boy. I am a French teacher by profession and I love travelling, reading and all things crafty, including moulding, quilling, painting and particularly cardmaking. I enjoy being a part of this great community of paper crafters from all over the world and love sharing ideas and techniques with so many talented people!
Hugz, Iulia
Hugz, Iulia
Amazing Job Iulia!!!
Labels: Guest Designer
Monday, April 25, 2011
Explosion Box
3 comments Posted by Beth Norman-Roberts at 10:00 AM
Good morning. Thank you for visiting Digital Delights. This is Beth Norman with this week's Tuesday Tutorial where I have an Explosion Box for you. There are many images that will work with the explosion box. I used the Sunflower Background image and cut off the stems and leaves.
The center of the Explosion Box is perfect for any sentiment so I used the Happy Birthday Circular Sentiment.
Enough teasing. Hop on over to our Tutorial post and see how to create your own Explosion Box.
Enough teasing. Hop on over to our Tutorial post and see how to create your own Explosion Box.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Happy Monday
1 comments Posted by Marlene at 9:13 PM
Hi everyone! Marlene here. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. It seems Spring is finally making an appearance here in my neck of the woods, at least!
Today, we've got a lovely card to show you made by Marie. With all the hype about the new Red Riding Hood movie coming out soon, I thought this card was adorable!
You can purchase the Red Riding Hood set HERE.
Materials List:
ALL DDSTAMPS USED: Red Riding Hood
CS AND PAPERS: October Afternoon
ACCESS. AND EMBELLISHMENTS: Flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts
COLORING MEDIUM (if any): Promarkers
And if you like Red Riding Hood or any of the fabulous Digital Delights images we are sponsoring at Paper Playtime for their "Friends" challenge and you could be a winner if you play along with them! You have until May 7th to enter and you could be adding to your Digital Delights collection!
Hugs, Marlene
Saturday, April 23, 2011
New Sunday Tutorial
1 comments Posted by Cristina at 11:00 PM
Hey it's Cristina Popping in, just wanted to let you know we have a new tutorial over on the tutorials page. Make sure you check it out
Wishing you and your families are very Happy and blessed Easter.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Saturday Showcase with Wendy
0 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 10:53 PM
Hi folks,
It's Wendy (aka Louby Loo) here. I am standing in today for Wanda. Wanda has been in hospital this week and I am pleased to say she is recovering well. She just needs to take it easy for a bit.
Anyway I thought it would be fun to show how we can make our cards and projects with more dimension.
Products are used Little Dumpling, All Boy Digital Paper Set and Its a Boy Sentiment
Head on over to the tutorial page for all the details and to view the video!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Lil Bug and Freebie Friday
6 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 9:40 PM
Hi folks,
It's also Freebie Friday!!
Visit www.digitaldelightsbyloubyloo.com and visit the Freebie section
This weeks Freebie
Hope you enjoy!
Dont worry if you missed the last weeks as it is now in the store for sale.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
New cards and new challenge
1 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 10:48 PM
Hi folks,
It's new cards Thursday and what a fab variety there is this week:) The DT continue to amaze me each week with their wonderful creations.
Katie - Both Sides of the Paper
Click here to buy Sweetie Pea and Welcome BabyAnita H - The Hovey Hut
Click here to buy Eggstraspecial bunny and crack a smile sentiment
Audrey – Peace, Love and Crafting
Audrey – Peace, Love and Crafting
Jan - Scrappy Scatty Jan
Click here to buy our Snuffles and Snookie Set and Easter sentiment
Jackie - Paper Moments
Click here to see our Pirate Collection
Click here to buy our Snuffles and Snookie Set and Easter sentiment
Jackie - Paper Moments
Click here to see our Pirate Collection
Click here to buy Pirate stamps
Shelley - One Stop Cards
Click here to buy Space stamps
Don't forget about our HUGE Easter sale still going on!!
Shelley - One Stop Cards
Click here to buy Space stamps
Don't forget about our HUGE Easter sale still going on!!
As always all our stamps come in both JPEG and PNG format
It's a new Challenge over at Delightful Challenges too:) Check out the wonderful designs from the DT.
Lisa and Rachel have a fun challenge lined up with the theme of "Butterflies" . This weeks challenge over at Delightful Challenges is sponsored by Digital Delights and you could win a wonderful prize
Have a fabulous crafty day and see you tomorrow for our FREEBIE FRIDAY
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Guest Designer Day
2 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 10:05 PM
Marsha used Private Peter for this fab card
I have been married for 43 years, have 6 children, 5 kids-in-law, and 10 grandchildren. I am recently retired which gives me more time with them and for card making. I am addicted to card challenges so I end up spending way too much time at my craft table. But I love making cards for family, friends, and for Operation Write Home. Thank you so much for the opportunity to be your Guest Designer.
See more of Marsha's work on Splitcoast stampers
We are also sponsoring Digital Tuesday this week
their DT have some really gorgeous samples, why not check them out!!
Labels: Guest Designer
Monday, April 18, 2011
Tutorial Tuesday with Diane
0 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 10:19 PM
Hi folks, It's tutorial Tuesday with Diane and I have this special pet memories album for you this week.
Head on over to our tutorial page to see how to create this very special memorial album.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Booboo bear card and box tutorial
2 comments Posted by Wendy Hall at 9:51 PM
Hi folks,
Hope you all had a fun and exciting weekend.
I made this card and box for a friend and thought I would put together a short tutorial so you can see how I made it............
Products used are Spring Weave Digital Paper Pack, Booboo Bear, Scalloped Background Set and Scalloped Window Box Cut File
See you tomorrow for our Tuesday tutorial with Beth!!
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You are currently browsing the tag archive for the 'Strategy' tag.
I have the (admittedly annoying) tendency to judge people based on their grammar and spelling habits, even over informal channels such as gchat and texting. Some have complained that this practice is unfair; but until recently, I thought it was a fair testament to a person's overall worth.
I admit, I was wrong (at least in one instance).
I'd like to introduce you all to Max (a real NYC friend!). Not the most grammatically correct gchat or texter (or best Scrabble-er), but good at fixing things and entertaining over a beer. Fed up with my correcting him and assuming he's incapable of writing, Max recently decided to prove me wrong, with the following that he wrote on his lunch break from solving white collar crimes. Please welcome Max and I'd love to hear your thoughts:
From the desk of Max
It is the dead of winter and I am behind enemy lines in Nazi occupied Russia, 60 kilometers from Leningrad. Bundled up in my Red Army issue parka I have taken up position in a stand of trees, perched high above a clearing on the edge of the enemies' base.
I can faintly hear what I imagine are the punch lines to jokes about killing Jews,
Something like, "eichenschleimenheimer" or "heishdenjewdemkillier."
Looking through the scope of my Kalashnikov sniper rifle, I've identified six Nazi soldiers standing in a circle, huddled together for warmth. I've zeroed in on the Swastika emblazoned on the hat of the soldier whose voice I heard right before the group burst in laughter.
I glance at my watch – only eight minutes left before they report back to their posts among the trees. If I don't move quickly enough I will surely be discovered and killed. I prepare to fire, switching off the safety while carefully positioning myself to kill all six of them in one burst.
Five minutes.
My heart is pounding. My hand trembles. My vision goes in and out of focus. I am exhausted from the long nights in the trees, but there is no room for error.
Three minutes.
Adrenaline takes over, and I go to work.
"Shit" I whisper. The sole survivor of my barrage dove to the ground after seeing his companions fall dead in front of him. He scrambled into the wooded area and has sought cover behind a large oak. Precious time ticks away, but he hasn't discovered my position. 30 seconds left. He peaks his head out from behind the tree. THWAP.
I breathe a sigh of relief and lay my #2 pencil down as I return to the reality of my fluorescently lit LSAT testing center in New York City.
"Please stop writing and lay your pencils down." booms the proctor. "You will now have a fifteen minute break after which you will begin the final two sections of your exam."
This is only a practice exam, but that was too close for comfort. You see, since reading David Benioff's sophomore effort "City of Thieves", I have developed a proprietary test taking strategy for the LSAT, for which I am currently studying despite my lack of desire to go to law school (long story for another post).
At the onset of my campaign towards LSAT domination, during breaks in my studies, I would read Benioff's novel to break the monotony of the "Logic Games" section. The novel takes place during WWII, and follows the adventures of a trio of unlikely heroes, one of whom is a Russian sniper. I enjoyed these breaks, which made the LSAT study sessions somewhat bearable, but quickly finished the book, and was left with the emptiness that only multiple choice questions can provide. So rather than thinking of each question as a series of logical premises that lead to "the best possible answer", I started imagining myself as Vika, the sniper, my pencil as my rifle, and the questions as Nazis. Haven't missed a question since. December 5th, test day, will be a bloodbath.
As an aside. I would recommend the book highly. Like cotton candy, it's light, fun, and will give you a little rush, like a sugar high. I haven't read his first book, The 25th Hour, but Benioff's screen play adaptation was turned into one of my all time favorite movies, it's a Spike Lee joint starring Edward Norton. If you haven't seen it, do so. Shhhhhhhhiiiiiiiiiiiit. (You'll understand once you've seen the movie.)
"You will now have 35 minutes to complete this section. If you finish before time is called, you may check over your previous work from this section only. Do not work on any other section, and please do not disturb the other test takers. You may begin."
I can see my breath again.


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Good Up High Bad Nearby - What is Ozone?
Updated September 2014View or print brochure in PDF (2003, 2 pp., 1.4MB, about PDF)
What is ozone?
Ozone is a gas that occurs both in the Earth's upper atmosphere and at ground level. Ozone can be "good" or "bad" for your health and the environment, depending on its location in the atmosphere.
How Can Ozone Be Both Good and Bad?
Ozone occurs in two layers of the atmosphere. The layer closest to the Earth's surface is the troposphere. Here, ground-level or "bad" ozone is an air pollutant that is harmful to breathe and it damages crops, trees and other vegetation. It is a main ingredient of urban smog. The troposphere generally extends to a level about 6 miles up, where it meets the second layer, the stratosphere. The stratosphere or "good" ozone layer extends upward from about 6 to 30 miles and protects life on Earth from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
What is Happening to the "Good" Ozone Layer?
Ozone is produced naturally in the stratosphere. But this "good" ozone is gradually being destroyed by man-made chemicals referred to as ozone-depleting substances (ODS), including chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), halons, methyl bromide, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl chloroform. These substances were formerly used and sometimes still are used in coolants, foaming agents, fire extinguishers, solvents, pesticides, and aerosol propellants. Once released into the air these ozone-depleting substances degrade very slowly. In fact, they can remain intact for years as they move through the troposphere until they reach the stratosphere. There they are broken down by the intensity of the sun's UV rays and release chlorine and bromine molecules, which destroy the "good" ozone. Scientists estimate that one chlorine atom can destroy 100,000 "good" ozone molecules.
Even though we have reduced or eliminated the use of many ODSs, their use in the past can still affect the protective ozone layer. Research indicates that depletion of the "good" ozone layer is being reduced worldwide. Thinning of the protective ozone layer can be observed using satellite measurements, particularly over the Polar Regions.
How Does the Depletion of "Good" Ozone Affect Human Health and the Environment?
Ozone depletion can cause increased amounts of UV radiation to reach the Earth which can lead to more cases of skin cancer, cataracts, and impaired immune systems. Overexposure to UV is believed to be contributing to the increase in melanoma, the most fatal of all skin cancers. Since 1990, the risk of developing melanoma has more than doubled.
UV can also damage sensitive crops, such as soybeans, and reduce crop yields. Some scientists suggest that marine phytoplankton, which are the base of the ocean food chain, are already under stress from UV radiation. This stress could have adverse consequences for human food supplies from the oceans.
What is Being Done About the Depletion of "Good" Ozone?
The United States, along with over 180 other countries, recognized the threats posed by ozone depletion and in 1987 adopted a treaty called the Montreal Protocol to phase out the production and use of ozone-depleting substances.EPA has established regulations to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals in the United States. Warning labels must be placed on all products containing CFCs or similar substances and nonessential uses of ozone-depleting products are prohibited. Releases into the air of refrigerants used in car and home air conditioning units and appliances are also prohibited. Some substitutes to ozone-depleting products have been produced and others are being developed. If the United States and other countries stop producing ozone-depleting substances, natural ozone production should return the ozone layer to normal levels by about 2050.
What Causes "Bad" Ozone?
Ground-level or "bad" ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but is created by chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the presence of sunlight. Emissions from industrial facilities and electric utilities, motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapors, and chemical solvents are some of the major sources of NOx and VOC.
At ground level, ozone is a harmful pollutant. Ozone pollution is a concern during the summer months because strong sunlight and hot weather result in harmful ozone concentrations in the air we breathe. Many urban and suburban areas throughout the United States have high levels of "bad" ozone. But many rural areas of the country are also subject to high ozone levels as winds carry emissions hundreds of miles away from their original sources.
How Does "Bad" Ozone Affect Human Health and the Environment?
Breathing ozone can trigger a variety of health problems including chest pain, coughing, and throat irritation. It can worsen bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. "Bad" ozone also can reduce lung function and inflame the linings of the lungs. Repeated exposure may permanently scar lung tissue.
Healthy people also experience difficulty breathing when exposed to ozone pollution. Because ozone forms in hot weather, anyone who spends time outdoors in the summer may be affected, particularly children, older people, outdoor workers and people exercising. Millions of Americans live in areas where the national ozone health standards are exceeded.
Ground-level or "bad" ozone also damages vegetation and ecosystems. It leads to reduced agricultural crop and commercial forest yields, reduced growth and survivability of tree seedlings, and increased susceptibility to diseases, pests and other stresses such as harsh weather. In the United States alone, ground-level ozone is responsible for an estimated $500 million in reduced crop production each year. Ground-level ozone also damages the foliage of trees and other plants, affecting the landscape of cities, national parks and forests, and recreation areas.
What Is Being Done About "Bad" Ozone?
Under the Clean Air Act, EPA has set protective health-based standards for ozone in the air we breathe. EPA, state, and cities have instituted a variety of multi-faceted programs to meet these health-based standards. Throughout the country, additional programs are being put into place to cut NOx and VOC emissions from vehicles, industrial facilities, and electric utilities. Programs are also aimed at reducing pollution by reformulating fuels and consumer/commercial products, such as paints and chemical solvents, that contain VOC. Voluntary programs also encourage communities to adopt practices, such as carpooling, to reduce harmful emissions.
|We live with ozone every day. It can protect life on earth or harm it, but we have the power to influence ozone's impact by the way we live.
High-Altitude "Good" Ozone
- Protect yourself against sunburn. When the UV Index is "high" or "very high": Limit outdoor activities between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is most intense. Twenty minutes before going outside, liberally apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. For UV Index forecasts, check local media reports or visit: https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/uv-index-1
- Use approved refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration equipment. Make sure technicians that work on your car or home air conditioners or refrigerator are certified to recover the refrigerant. Repair leaky air conditioning units before refilling them.
Ground-Level "Bad" Ozone
- Check the air quality forecast in your area. At times when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to be unhealthy, limit physical exertion outdoors. In many places, ozone peaks in mid-afternoon to early evening. Change the time of day of strenuous outdoor activity to avoid these hours, or reduce the intensity of the activity. For AQI forecasts, check your local media reports or visit: http://epa.gov/airnow
- Help your local electric utilities reduce ozone air pollution by conserving energy at home and the office. Consider setting your thermostat a little higher in the summer. Participate in your local utilities' load-sharing and energy conservation programs.
- Reduce air pollution from cars, trucks, gas-powered lawn and garden equipment, boats and other engines by keeping equipment properly tuned and maintained. During the summer, fill your gas tank during the cooler evening hours and be careful not to spill gasoline. Reduce driving, carpool, use public transportation, walk, or bicycle to reduce ozone pollution, especially on hot summer days.
- Use household and garden chemicals wisely. Use low VOC paints and solvents. And be sure to read labels for proper use and disposal.
For air program information, contact your Regional EPA Office:
|...or visit EPA's Learn About Air Web site at https://www.epa.gov/learn-issues/learn-about-air
|about the cover...
|TOP: The "good" ozone layer in the stratosphere protects life on Earth from the Sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
|MIDDLE: Antarctic Ozone Thinning-shown in blue and purple, extended out over 16 million square miles or about the same size as North America (2001 NASA satellite image).
|BOTTOM: "Bad" ozone at ground-level is harmful to breathe and damages crops, trees, and other vegetation.
US EPA Office of Air and Radiation
June 2003


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Non-Fiction Books - Reviews
Book Review by Ann Jonas, Tradebook Buyer - CSB/SJU Bookstores
this review was published in the St. Cloud Visitor
Going Blind: A Memoir by Mara Faulkner, OSB, published by State University of New York Press, 2009
Sister Mara Faulkner, a member of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict in St. Joseph, and an English professor at the College of St. Benedict, grew up in an Irish Catholic family in rural North Dakota. Her father had retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic disease that gradually blinded him. Her memoir tells of his blindness and how he and his family coped with this hardship. The book is really much more than a memoir, however. Sr. Mara explores numerous metaphors and definitions of blindness to tell her family's story. The Irish Potato Famine, the Japanese interned in Bismarck during World War II, and the Native American tribes adversely affected by the Garrison Dam Project are all part of this interesting and informative memoir.
Satchel: The Life and Times of an American Legend, by Larry Tye, published by Random House, 2009
Many readers, especially baseball fans, have heard of Leroy "Satchel" Paige, and are familiar with some of his exploits as a legendary Negro League pitcher. Author Larry Tye thoroughly researched Satchel's story, interviewing more than two hundred former teammates and opponents, family members, and friends of Satchel. The book details Satchel's early life, growing up in Alabama in the early 1900's, his barnstorming across the country as a superstar pitcher in the Negro Leagues, and his later years, when he finally gets the chance to pitch in the Major Leagues, well past his prime. History buffs and baseball fans will find this book engaging. It is a fascinating and enlightening portrait of a unique character, who may have been the greatest pitcher in baseball.


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Location: Triratna Leeds Buddhist Centre
This is a Sesshin (meditation practice). It is for people with some experience of meditation who are happy to meditate without any guidance or instruction. There will be three 30 minute unled sits, with silent breaks between sits
- First sit: 10:00 – 10:30am
- Silent leg stretch: 10:30 – 10:45am,
- Second sit: 10:45 – 11:15am
- Silent leg stretch: 11:15 – 11:30am,
- Third sit: 11:30 – 12:00pm
Please aim to arrive between 9.40 and 9.55 or during one of the breaks. Unfortunately we do not admit people during a meditation sit as it disturbs others.
This morning is run on a drop-in basis and there is no charge. However the Buddhist Centre relies on the generosity of the people who use it. If you can, please help us to make mindfulness, meditation and Buddhism available to everyone by putting a donation in the dana bowl or by taking out a regular standing order to support the Centre.
Date(s) - 16/02/2020
10:00 am - 12:00 pm


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This is an archive page. The links in this content are no longer being updated.
David Sacks (301) 734-5271
Lyndsay Cole (970) 494-7410
WASHINGTON, May 27, 2011--The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to require horse industry organizations to impose minimum USDA-mandated penalties for horse soring.
"Our goal remains the same—to eliminate the cruel practice of soring horses," said Chester Gipson, APHIS' Deputy Administrator for animal care. "This proposed rule will increase consistency and strengthen our enforcement of the Horse Protection Act."
Currently, horse industry organizations (HIOs) can either follow their own penalty protocol or abide by APHIS' penalty structure. The proposed rule issued today would require HIOs to adopt the APHIS penalty structure as minimum standards. This action would ensure that the penalties applied by the 12 HIOs are more consistent.
In September 2010, USDA's Office of Inspector General (OIG) found deficiencies in APHIS' horse protection program. One of OIG's recommendations was that APHIS develop and implement protocols to more consistently penalize individuals who have violated the Horse Protection Act. APHIS developed a minimum penalty protocol and is proposing a regulatory requirement to ensure all HIOs follow it.
Congress passed the Horse Protection Act in 1970 to eliminate the practice of soring by prohibiting the showing or selling of sored horses. Soring is a cruel and abusive practice used to accentuate a horse's gait by irritating or blistering a horse's forelegs. APHIS works actively with the horse industry to protect against such abuse and ensure that only sound and healthy horses participate in shows. The Agency's ultimate goal is to end this inhumane practice completely.
This action is published in today's May 27 Federal Register.
Consideration will be given to comments received on or before July 26, 2011. You may submit comments by either of the following methods:
Comments are posted on the Regulations.gov website and may also be reviewed at USDA, Room 1141, South Building, 14th St. and Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. To facilitate entry into the comment reading room, please call (202) 690-2817.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call
(800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).


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During the evening of 25 February 2010, in Timbuktu (Mali), a stampede occurred amidst a crowd gathered outside Djingareyber Mosque. Among the crowd were local citizens and other pilgrims who had assembled there to pray on the occasion of the Mawlid festival, celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
This stampede caused 22 deaths and at least 45 persons were injured.
Timbuktu, a city in Mali in the middle of the Sahara Desert, was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1988 due to its history as an intellectual and spiritual capital and a centre for the propagation of Islam throughout Africa in the 15th and 16th centuries. Its three great mosques, Djingareyber, Sankore and Sidi Yahia, recall Timbuktu's golden age.
The World Heritage Centre expresses its heartfelt condolences for this tragic event to the families of the victims, to the city of Timbuktu, to the authorities of the Djingareyber Mosque and the community as a whole.


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General Description
The Hotel Savigny Frankfurt City by MGallery is a 4-star hotel in a quiet location that is nevertheless in the heart of the financial district, only a few minutes' walk from the exhibition center, train station & city center. 155 air-conditioned, elegantly furnished rooms combine modernity & comfort. 3 meeting rooms for 120 guests, a breakfast room & a lounge offering a fine selection of traditional dishes & drinks complete the hotel's facilities. Free Internet terminal and WIFI in the lounge.


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Saint Injuriosus of Auvergne
Married to Saint Scholastica of Auvergne.The two, known as the Les Deux Amants, lived their lives together as holy and chaste lay people.
- c.550
- Book of Saints, by the Monks of Ramsgate
- Our Sunday Visitor's Encyclopedia of Saints
- "Saint Injuriosus of Auvergne". CatholicSaints.Info. 24 May 2012. Web. 20 September 2020. <>


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Aviva RNA Seq Tool
The gene expression profile information found on this page is intended to assist researchers in identifying tissues/cell samples that express a given gene. Gene expression profile information is taken from publicly available RNA-seq analysis and does not necessarily imply appreciable amounts at the protein level in the tissue/cell samples indicated.
Gene Name: ERLIN2 ER lipid raft associated 2 [ Homo sapiens (human) ]
Cell Line
Please go here to view list of all tissues and cell lines tested.
Would you like to participate in a quick survey?
Legend for all data units:
FPKM: Fragments Per Kilobase Of Exon Per Million Fragments Mapped
RNA-SEQ data for Tissues: European Molecular Biology Laboratory-The European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) ArrayExpress E-MTAB-1733
RNA-SEQ data for Cell Lines: NCBI BioProject


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Order the Official Wisconsin Dells Vacation Guide®
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See the Dells in amusing style. The banter of the drivers is good clean comedy, and the scenery on land and water is a sight to behold, up close and personal.
Eat fudge
Let Dells homemade fudge melt in your mouth. Buy a caramel apple, dipped multiple times for good measure, for midnight snacking.
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Honestly, the Tommy Bartlett Show is synonymous with Wisconsin Dells and is one of the most fun Wisconsin Dells attractions. Remember, don't try all those tricks at home. Leave it to the professionals.
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When R.P.A Tech's Air Mouse Pro was released over a year ago, it held the distinction as the first and only app to turn your iPhone/iPod Touch into a, well, air mouse. Improvements were made with each update and now that version 2.0 has finally been released, Air Mouse Pro has become the undisputed heavyweight champ of all iDevice mouse/trackpads. Not only will the app serve as a simple wireless mouse, AMP essentially transforms your iPhone into an all-in-one universal remote for your for your PC/Mac.
R.P.A. Tech, Air Mouse Pro (Remote / Trackpad) – $1.99


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Continuing (belatedly) the series in which I answer the ten questions posted at Blue Milk concerning what a feminist mother looks like. Today is Part 3. You can see Part 1 here and Part 2 here. Since Blue Milk's post went up in 2007 and I have answered the questions over two years, my answers may be a bit skewed. See something inconsistent or that make you go "huh??," ask me about it. This is always on my mind.
9. If you're an attachment parenting mother, what challenges if any does this pose for your feminism and how have you resolved them?
This has forced me to do more difficult intellectual work concerning theories of difference. I hope I would have come to this place anyway but exclusive and extended breastfeeding, co-sleeping, and babywearing mean that my relationship with my children is different from their father's who can not breastfeed and with whom they wish to do less of all of these other things. The acts of attachment parenting have made me look at what equality means and redefine it in a more nuanced way. "Equal" does not mean "exactly the same." One can not measure the work of two parents as one might flour on a scale. If the other parent of my children were also female and were also breastfeeding, perhaps coming to equity would be a simpler task.
Also, Second Wave Feminism assumes my equality depends on my ability to earn the same wage as men. It does not value parenting as it does waged labor. I don't think this devaluing of unwaged work is feminist. It is capitalist and feminism does not need to be capitalist. True equality and true feminism values my unwaged parenting as it would my waged lawyering.
10. Do you feel feminism has failed mothers and if so how? Personally, what do you think feminism has given
Feminism has given mothers more than I could possibly list. It has given mothers the legal right totheir children. Prior to feminism, under common law men owned children and had the right to dictate what happened to them. "Father's Rights Movement" rhetoric aside, they don't have a clue how good they had it. Feminism gave mothers the vote. Feminism gave mother legal recourse if they are raped by their husbands. Feminism gave mothers greater ability to force the fathers of their children to provide financial support even if the mother is not married to the father.


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FOLLOW ME ON forbes
My Bright Green blog on the Forbes site uncovers emerging trends and innovative solutions to some of today's most pressing issues. I often write about the intersection between science, technology and the environment.
Recent articles include information on crowd-funding your first novel, the top five trends in green living and a group of "rabbits" that want to run your errands.
I often crowd-source original artwork for the site so if you'd like to create a graphic for Bright Green ping me: email@example.com


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Monday, September 10, 2007
Posted by kimmie e at 1:25 PM 0 comments
Labels: beyonce, Britt Britt, Lil' Mama, mtv, VMA
Twin Towers.."the college dropout" vs. Mr.Cent ((UPDATE))
Well tomorrow marks September 11th...the anniversary of one of the U.S.A's most tragic...tragedies...(moment of silence)...but of course we're not worried about that, we're worried about whose gonna sell more, 50 or Kanye, Oh America, we soooo have our priorities straight (as if) lmao. I still have my money on Mr. Cent, i hate to admit that he may pertain to a larger demographic than Jeremy Scott sunglass wearin' Mr. West (of whom I am a huge huge fan..and whose CD I WILL be BUYING and NOT listening to on YOUTUBE!!). All we can do America is wait on the results.
All this hubub makes me wonder why they picked that date in the first place..I mean why not Valentines Day or New Years, not the anniversary of a tragedy....o well, we are sooo feeding into the hype...i can't even lie, I like the hype, and you probably do too.
Posted by kimmie e at 1:18 PM 0 comments
Labels: 50 cent, Kanye West


text: Hans Hochstöger / In God´s Hand Scientist say a major earthquake will strike Istanbul in the next 10 years. Of any place on earth where an earthquake could strike, it is said that in Istanbul, with more than 15 million people, it will cause the most damage. For RED BULL PUBLISHING we documented people´s preparations and fears, and the consequences on the city.


text: Pets Even those who aren t crazy about animals will admit that pets occupy a special place in their owners hearts and deserve to be treated with as much pampering as possible. Washington pets services include pet grooming salons, pet sitting, pet daycare and parks, and even pet health insurance. Local dogs and cats have sure come a long way from the days when their only trip was to the veterinarian.


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<h3 ""="" tabindex="-1″>what about cricket (1) WHAT ABOUT CRICKET? (Part 1) by CAMERON DUODU The Ghanaian Times 24.07.2012 Someone who read my piece entitled "Why do we love sports so much?" threw me a simple question: 'what about cricket'? My examination of sports had largely taken in football and basketball but had not included a word about cricket. …
Tag: East Africa
Jul 23
WHAT ABOUT CRICKET (Part 1)
Permanent link to this article: http://cameronduodu.com/uncategorized/what-about-cricket-part-1


text: Whether painting on canvas,capturing an image on film Bassam knew from a very young age that he wanted to create and it was obvious that he had an ability to see and express his ideas in profound ways. He continuously nourished his interests, as a student, with the support and evaluation of his instructors. As his skills and vision have grown, so has his portfolio, cultivating a successful career in art ,photography and creating usable art. Bassam's work as an artist allowed him to travel throughout Canada for four years, deepening his appreciation for its landscape and people. He was then based in Calgary for several years, exploring the Rockies and expanding his vision. Bassamh has also completed many inspiration photography trips including a year in the Middle East and a year-long trip to New Zealand. The result is a diverse portfolio.The Storyteller's collection began over four years ago and is continuously expanding and changing as our lives continuously expand and change.


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The only good thing you can say about the Republican primaries, beside the fact that they have been hugely entertaining, is that no matter who wins, it means that someone else just as bad or worse has lost. So I cannot help but be pleased to see the rich white guy who desperately wants to be the front runner coming in third in the Alabama and Mississippi contests. Nor can I not celebrate that the amphibiously named other rich white guy did not pull off a badly needed Deep South victory.
Of course the downside is that Rick Santorum has even more momentum. Even the plus side of this- that it is driving Dan Savage insane- does not negate the damage this is doing to the credibility of the Catholic Church in this country.
I know I have spent an inordinate amount of energy decrying the candidacy of Santorum. As his positions do not differ much from the other candidates (aside from Ron Paul) I should probably offer a little of the history of my relationship with what I call "the conservative Catholic subculture" to explain this.
When I returned to the Church in 1979, after a brief sojourn as an charismatic evangelical, and a longer one as a seeker (you can read about it here) I returned to something of a mess. The institutional Church- dioceses, religious orders, seminaries, etc- was almost everywhere controlled by those whose views differed from the magisterium on any number of issues. Liturgies were almost everywhere banal.
I soon found a circle of friends who valued religious orthodoxy, many of whom were involved in the nascent prolife rescue movement. Many of these had come to antiabortion activism from the antiwar movement; it seemed logical to work against what was just another form of violence against the innocent. Nor was that logic confined to young radicals; Democrats from Ted Kennedy to Jesse Jackson to Al Gore were vocal opponents of abortion in those times. It is one of the tragedies of the age to have seen them fall one by one as they aspired to national office.
Some of my new friends, though, were conservative. And while most of my conservative friends were and are more of the Ron Paul, libertarian type, I also, because of the circles I moved in, rubbed shoulders with more conventional Republicans. I argued with them about economics and papal teachings, and it was frustrating, but because it all seemed secondary to the task at hand- fighting for doctrinal orthodoxy and against abortion- it did not seem intolerable. And I accepted the fact that if one is doctrinally orthodox one is likely to encounter a good many people who are conservative by temperament, even though I am by nature a radical, and saw the radical possibilities of orthodoxy, and especially of Catholic social doctrine. As allies in a bigger struggle, I didn't hesitate to count conservatives as friends. It is sort of like the genial disagreement I have these days with antiwar and anti-imperial libertarians, many of whom are linked on my blogroll: with a common enemy we can set aside our differences.
For now.
At that time, of course, and through the 80s, American interventionism was, if not on hold, at least confined to more minor conflicts. Grenada, yes, some meddling in El Salvador and Nicaragua, indeed. Not good, but a minor thing compared to what we were consumed with. In the eighties I voted for Republicans, under the illusion that this was "voting prolife" and that this meant tolerating the many things I disagreed with.
And then Bush Sr attacked Iraq. This was something on another scale altogether. I was appalled, and in the first issue of Caelum et Terra I published an essay called "A Just War or Just a War?" denouncing the war. That was, I think, the first and last comment on contemporary politics in the five years the magazine was published. It was not that I was apolitical; I paid attention, and always voted. But I have not voted for a major party presidential candidate since 1986. It was just that in those days, the days when I was editing the magazine, I saw the possibility of a vibrant Catholic counterculture emerging. Politics seemed largely irrelevant, given the state we were in.
As the years went by things changed. Eight years of Bush and Cheney and their wars and rumors of wars, of more and more evidence that the whole free market revolution was a veil for the looting of America by the upper classes, traumatized and reradicalized me.
What's more important, I saw the nascent Catholic counterculture transmute into a subculture: adjusting a little here and there, it more or less adopted the bourgeois American model of life.
I only fully became aware of this when my children were old enough to be schooled. I married late, and when I was younger I knew many homeschooling families, all of whom were radical. Many did not own TVs, and all were critical of the American paradigm. When my wife joined a local Catholic homeschooling group, I was a bit shocked to learn that when the girls got together to play, it was with Barbies. The boys went for airsoft guns, and fake war games in the woods (the older of these are now out of high school, and two of them went directly into the Marines, with the full approval of their family). All of the parents were ardent Republicans, fully supportive of American interventionism. They have many good points, are very generous and kind, and so on, but I never fit in.
In fact, what the local homeschooling group represents is a small outpost of what I call the Republicatholic subculture. No, that is not what they call themselves; they fancy themselves "orthodox Catholics", and in reality think of themselves as the Real Catholics. They are with the Church on birth control and abortion and sexual morality and dogmatic theology. They are personally devout. They pray the rosary and receive the Eucharist with thanksgiving.
And they are unconsciously so blinded by Americanism that they unthinkingly dismiss anything in the words of Jesus Christ or Church teaching that challenges their faith in America, in its exceptionalism and goodness.
I know many of them, and I like most of the ones I know, and they drive me crazy.
So you see, I feel like I almost know Rick Santorum (indeed, I have friends who are on a first name basis with him). He is their candidate, made in their image. Like many of my friends he is affluent, personally pious, has a bunch of kids that he homeschools, and then sends to Opus Dei high schools. And he is an Americanist first, a Catholic second.
Conservative Catholic EWTN talk show host Al Kresta ran a poll of his listeners on Super Tuesday, and an astonishing 80% of them were Santorum enthusiasts. 80%.
Santorum has become Sanctorum, the anointed one of the conservative Catholic subculture. Non-Catholic pundits are quick to agree that he is the Catholic candidate and to denounce him for it. Few challenge how far he diverges from Catholic social teaching on any but sexual issues. The bishops, who should be clarifying this, are strangely silent. Conservative Catholic bloggers are in love: "Rick Santorum, Catholic Hero" chirps the American Papist.
One wonders when one sees all this what they are thinking. This is a man who deemed it "wonderful" when an Iranian scientist, the father of young children, was, in defiance of international and divine law, assassinated. This is a man who sees no problem with "enhanced interrogation", ie, torture, who thinks it fine to inflict pain and terror on someone suspected of terrorism. This is a man who has stated his intent to engage in preemptive war, against a nation that cannot be said in any way to pose a threat to the US.
This is a man, in the final analysis, despite his piety, is willing to contradict what his Church teaches to serve America.
This, my friends, is idolatry.
To choose Rick Santorum for president is to choose Nation over Church, this world over heaven, and Mammon over God.


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